Being surrounded by all of Costa Rica’s natural beauty is a constant source of inspiration. I feel my creative juices flowing on a daily basis.

Throughout my life, writing has always been my consistent creative outlet. Outside of my daily blog posts, I find myself journalling and doing the occasional freelance article. So I’ve pretty much got the writing side of things covered.

Prior to our departure I had started dabbling in some more artistic outlets. A couple paintings here and there, but nothing to serious.  At the last minute I decided to pack a sketchbook and some markers, figuring they might come in handy if I was bored one day.

I am SO glad I did.

 Ever since we arrived I’ve been sketching my little heart out, in fact, I’ve gone through three packs of markers already.

Although I’m inspired by artist such as Yapes Paint and Marina Jenelle, I gain lots of my inspiration from local art. I think every town we’ve visited has some sort of art gallery. Whether it’s paint on driftwood, or giant metal sculptures, it is evident that EVERYONE’s creative juices are flowing here in Costa Rica.

After spending the last several months with my markers glued to my side, I found I was getting restless with their limitations. I couldn’t blend colours, or get really fine details.

I started keeping my eyes out for paint but soon realized it was impossible to find. Whenever I would find a local artist, I would ask them where they get their paint from. The answer was always “San Jose.” I knew we wouldn’t be staying in the heart of San Jose, so figured I would be destined to be paintless till we got home.

 Then we went to Panama, and I connected with Christin at Random Art in Bocas del Toro. Not only did she have an amazing set of acrylics that I could travel with, but she hooked me up with paint brushes, and a great big sketchbook. Needless to say, I was stoked.

So now I’ve reached a turning point with my creativity in Costa Rica. Paints are a whole different ballgame, and to be quite honest, I’m sort of intimidated.

In fact, I’ve been lugging the paints around for over two weeks, moment to dive in.

I no longer have the security blanket of my markers and little sketchpad. I can’t just throw it in my purse, and whip it out when I’m bored. I know need to find a space, set up my supplies, and be solely focused on creating something. It’s actually pretty exciting.

So, I guess this will be a two part post. The calm before the creative storm. You’ll just have to wait and see what comes out of this brain…You could be in for some very colourful finger painting!!

Wish me luck!

Question for the day…what should I paint??

Pura Vida!

Kate

Follow me on Twitter: @caketress